You are here

Redfield celebrates Founders Day

By Amber Harvey

Community spirit was abundant at the Founders Day celebration that was held in Redfield on Saturday. People from miles around gathered at the former Redfield Middle School to join in on fun and fellowship.

The celebration marks the first ever Founders Day celebration for a town that was founded on October 18, 1898 and includes a population of over 1,200 citizens.

Saturday’s events were organized by the Redfield Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber’s president, Amanda Spivey was on hand to help oversee many of the day’s activities.

Redfield has been known in the past for its annual Halloween Festival that is normally held at the Redfield Middle School. According to Spivey, the chamber decided it would be a good idea to replace that festival with something that would be equally fun and beneficial for the community.

“Redfield’s Founders Day is in October, so we thought it would be a perfect time to have something for the community. It’s an opportunity to have something for the kids that they are used to having at the Fall Festival,” said Spivey.

Spivey added, “We hope this can be an annual event.”

Visitors to the event could browse the various vendors including crafts and food. Kids enjoyed carnival style games and bounce houses throughout the event which ran from noon to 9 p.m.

White Hall Martial Arts provided entertainment as students demonstrated technique and form for curious onlookers.

The Arkansas vs. Alabama game was broadcast on a big screen for those die hard Razorback fans who wanted to enjoy the community celebration, but not miss a moment of football action.

As the evening went on, citizens were able to take in an outdoor concert which included the Cummins Prison Band and Queen Anne’s Revenge.

Redfield Mayor Tony Lawhon commented on the success of the day. “I think we have had a great turnout today,” Lawhon said.

When discussing the significance of Founders Day and the future of Redfield, Lawhon said “We are looking at the possibility of turning the Lonestar Church into a museum.” The city recently received a grant to help restore the historical site.

“If you have a better idea of where you came from, you will know where you will be going,” Lawhon added referring to the importance of historical preservation and the city’s plans for growth.